A primary focus of the meeting was the progress of the Victoria Downtown West project, now in its second phase after the City Council approved an agreement with Victoria Downtown West LLC in January. The project aims to revitalize the downtown area with retail, residential components, and community spaces. Upcoming community workshops in March seek to engage stakeholders and gather input on these developments. The committee emphasized the importance of creating an environment that promotes engagement through well-designed sidewalks and open areas, which are intended to foster community interaction.

Another topic discussed was the communication challenges faced by the committee in reaching Victoria’s senior population. The removal of a local newspaper has created a gap in information dissemination, prompting the committee to consider alternative solutions. One proposal involves publishing two monthly columns in collaboration with Carver County, with the possibility of using the upcoming Older Americans Month in May as a thematic focus. The columns would likely discuss initiatives such as a new resource directory. The committee is exploring options for who will write these articles and serve as the liaison with Carver County.

Additionally, the committee addressed the development of a walkability plan, following a completed study on the subject. The plan will include timelines and specific infrastructure improvements necessary to enhance walkability in Victoria. The collaboration with Parks and Recreation staff is seen as vital in prioritizing these changes based on committee observations. By focusing on walkability, the committee aims to improve community access and connectivity, particularly for the senior population.

The meeting also highlighted the ongoing collaboration with the Carver County Office of Aging. The committee finds their annual meeting with the office beneficial for connecting with other community members and sharing the impact of various projects. This partnership is essential in developing programming for senior facilities and hosting workshops with the City Council to discuss survey results. Although the meeting with the City Council has been postponed, it remains a critical step in establishing guidelines for creating spaces where seniors can gather and engage with the community.

A new initiative to improve community engagement was introduced, focusing on sharing senior resources and gathering feedback. The plan includes hosting booths at local events such as the Farmers Market and parks and trails engagements, with three events anticipated. This initiative aims to create a two-way communication channel with residents, fostering a more interactive and responsive relationship between the committee and the community.

The committee also considered the importance of visiting senior-focused facilities to learn from other communities, particularly within Carver County. This exploration could provide valuable insights into how to improve facilities and services for seniors in Victoria.

In addition to these initiatives, the meeting included updates on health matters provided by Cara Cassidy from Carver County Public Health. She noted that flu cases had peaked, while RSV and norovirus were on the decline. The discussion also touched on measles vaccinations and the potential need for boosters, especially for those vaccinated before 1968.

Finally, the committee discussed the upcoming 10th anniversary celebration of the Victoria library, scheduled for May 3. The event will feature remarks from local officials and performances by the Row Family Singers, with cake served to attendees. The celebration will begin at 10 AM, with doors opening at 9:30 AM.